Ayden Johnson Ayden Johnson 5'11" | PG Caldwell Academy | 2026 State NC is a kid that simply delivers and is a classic “late riser” in the rankings because he doesn’t have the physical measurables to warrant a super high ranking early. What he’s done on the flip side of that is be undeniably productive and impactful towards winning in every single setting we see him in. Johnson has risen from 46 all the way up to 18. Along with that he checks just about every box needed for a small guard to have success, especially on the offensive end of the floor. Johnson has ridiculously deep off the catch and bounce range on his jump shot, the quickness and craftiness to create for himself from every level off the bounce, along with being more than capable of running a team despite not being the full time PG alongside of King Kendrick King Kendrick 6'1" | PG Caldwell Academy | 2027 State #151 Nation NC . Johnson’s ability to play off the ball is incredibly valuable as well and will 100% be vital to his success at the next level as he plays with other talented guys. Merrimack was smart to get this one done when they did and Johnson has a chance to be a really good player at the division one level if he stays on the track that he’s currently on. The kid just simply plays well extremely consistently and has done it for a long time now.

Johnson poured in 17 points as Caldwell Academy faced powerhouse Greensboro Day on Friday. He showcased determination and creativity, finding ways to get buckets despite constant pressure. He hit tough pull-up jumpers and attacked the basket fearlessly, absorbing contact to earn points the hard way. Johnson’s effort kept Caldwell competitive early on. While his team fell short, Johnson’s ability to create his own offense against one of the state’s top defenses was a highlight.

The Merrimack commit was a major reason why a shorthanded Caldwell Academy was able to gut out a real character win over Jordan HS in Durham. Johnson’s shot-making, poise, and timely defensive plays were vital in this Caldwell win. With no Neal Swindell Neal Swindell 6'4" | SF Caldwell Academy | 2026 State NC and a few other contributors out with illness + no practice last week. The veteran battle tested backcourt of King Kendrick King Kendrick 6'1" | PG Caldwell Academy | 2027 State #151 Nation NC and Ayden Johnson Ayden Johnson 5'11" | PG Caldwell Academy | 2026 State NC had to shine, that is exactly what they did. Johnson is a true threat to score the basketball from all over the floor, he’s willing to come off the basketball when needed, but also not scared to take over when needed and make plays for himself or others off the bounce. Expect Johnson to help lead Caldwell on another state title run this season.

Johnson is a quick, athletic guard who plays with high energy. He is a 3-level scorer who plays aggressively. Johnson is aggressive on defense and want to get out in transition.

Johnson finds himself at No. 55 in the latest rankings market corrections for the 2026 class out of Caldwell Academy. Fresh off a state championship which saw Johnson lead the way with six made 3-pointers and 20 points, he’s due for a big spring/summer on the EYCL stage with Team CP3 EYCL . He’s listed at just 5-foot-11 but has a college-ready frame already which he utilizes in a number of ways. One being his ability to knock down shots on the perimeter. He knocked 85 3-pointers and put up 12.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.8 steals per game on 40 percent shooting from deep as a junior in 2024-25 at Caldwell Academy. He’s slowly emerging as a prospect for college programs in the region to get on their radar.

Ayden is a talented point guard with the potential to lead a team to victory, contend for a state championship, and attract college coaches attention. He thrives in the right situation and with proper exposure. This year, Ayden is poised for a breakout season with Caldwell showcasing his ability to penetrate defenses, score at all three levels, and facilitate for his teammates. His defense has also improved, using his quickness and toughness to pressure ball handlers. Keep an eye on this 2026 prospect, who deserves to be mentioned among the top point guards in the state.

Johnson moves from No. 64 into the 42nd spot in the latest rankings update as he continues to show his growth with Team CP3 EYCL on the EYCL Champions stage. He’s a shifty floor general who’s improved tremendously on his overall strength and it’s shown in his ability to absorb contact in the painted area and make things happen off the bounce. He’s due for a strong junior year at Caldwell Academy this season.